‘Seniors are falling through the cracks:’ An exploratory analysis of community support for elders leaving prison

• In Event: Community Reentry

Abstract

Older people are a growing proportion of the prison population and ultimately 95% will return to our communities. Upon return, older people often face challenges including deteriorating physical and mental health. Older people also face challenges of obtaining housing, employment, and navigating modern technology. Older people return to communities with limited family support and social capital, making their reentry efforts a challenging proposition. Therefore the aim of this study was to understand what support is and is not available for older people leaving prison in the state of New Jersey. In order to understand available support, two mini-focus groups were conducted. Both focus groups included three representatives from community based organizations to understand their efforts to support older people leaving prison and what gaps exist for this growing correctional population. Results indicated that seniors require a great deal of support upon release from prison, but there are few programs that address those needs specifically. Program providers also shared that it is harder to engage this vulnerable population. Therefore, supporting older people recently released from prison often required creativity in the approach from service providers along with significant guidance to support this population. Future research and actionable recommendations will be discussed.

Authors

• Angela Silletti Murolo, St. Francis College

• Lena Campagna, Caldwell University